"In this court, he cannot," Blackwood responded. "You can have an attorney or represent yourself."

Roseburgh said that representing himself goes against his religion.

Blackwood, acknowledging "that may be true," stood firm, adding that he does not intend to engage in "a theological dispute."

The case involves a handful of misdemeanor charges against Roseburgh and his wife, Wendy Gail Roseburgh, for operating a plant nursery without proper state certification.

The special judge was appointed after the Roseburghs filed criminal complaints against a host of county employees and officeholders, including Judge Michael Meares, who asked that the special judge handle the case.

At Monday's hearing, Blackwood patiently advised Roseburgh to retain a lawyer to defend him, but the defendant refused. Roseburgh has said that he bases his decision on a Bible passage that says God will give Christians the correct words to say in court.

He also refuses - based on Scripture - to sign any type of written agreement.

Both Roseburghs had been summoned to court Monday, but Wendy Roseburgh did not show. William Roseburgh told the judge she was at home caring for her ill father and that a typing mistake on the notice to appear had her called to answer the wrong case. So she didn't come.

Blackwood ordered Wendy Roseburgh to appear at noon today so that he can give her the same advice about hiring earthly counsel that he gave her husband.

Trial for the Roseburghs was set for Aug. 7.

After the hearing, Roseburgh also raised the issue that his name was typed in capital letters on the court papers, saying "that makes you dead."

Roseburgh also told the judge he intends to call Gov. Phil Bredesen and U.S. Sen. Lamar Alexander, R-Tenn., to testify, although he did not elaborate on what their testimony would be.

He also hinted that he may attempt to have Blackwood removed from the case but declined to say on what grounds.